Automobile News

The Swedish car maker, Saab is celebrating its 25 years of success with a Special Edition Version of the 9-3. It’s been 25 years since the company launched its first Convertible and there could not be a better way to rejoice. The new Saab Convertible in its bright and stunning champagne metallic colour is likely to become a hot talk after the Los Angles Motor Show.

The original convertible that debuted in 1983 at the Frankfurt auto show was quite accommodating and stylish. The 9-3 edition is designed with the same style but in a manner to match the contemporary market. Available in three metallic colours, the attractive vehicle features a 2.0-litre, 210 bhp four-cylinder engine that truly gives it a signature of the maker. The Turbo X performance model seems to inspire the carbon fire interiors, direction-finding wheel and the front bumper. However, the dual exhaust pipes and a five-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels match the style of the Aero version.

The Los Angeles International show, opening to the public on 22 of November will surely be delighted to showcase the charm of a remarkable class that has been in highlights since long. Except for the one debuting in the show, the Special Edition 9-3 will be available in Jet Black and Carbon Grey, and with a set of gorgeous rims to complement the entire package. So if you are too tempted to go for a test drive, calm down and wait till its arrival in the showrooms, which is expected to be in the early months of 2009

The French manufacturer is pushing the generational car model change way forward with the new coupe cabriolet Peugeot 308 CC: the Cabrio, with a metal convertible roof, will first be showcased at the Parisian Auto Show in October, and roll onto dealer lots in early 2009.

The convertible variant of the 308 series maintains much of the looks and appearance typical of the series. The shark mouth front appearance, with the headlights as the eyes and the grill as the teeth, as well as a higher back than front, both highlight two of the car’s distinctive features. The new LED taillights are also quite noticeable. The transformation from coupe to cabrio takes around 20 seconds, and the driver can follow this metamorphosis on the colour screen in the middle console.

The four seater’s interior is focused on providing comfort: the seats are equipped with devices that warm the driver’s and passenger’s necks. Seat heaters and air conditioning are also on board. With the top down the boot room is 226 litres, but with the roof closed the space expands to 403 litres.

A 2.0 litre diesel engine with a performance of 103 kW/ 140 HP will power the car when it is released early next year. A model will follow later with a 1.6 litre petrol engine, featuring a turbo charger and direct petrol input, and an engine performance of 110 kW/ 150 HP. Both engines come with a manual six gear transmission, although an automatic is optionally available. An electronic stability programme helps provide added security. Prices have yet to be released for the 308 CC, but we can expect the upcoming diesel model to be going for around £23,000.